MAN SENTENCED TO 17 YEARS IN BRADFORD FOR SEXUAL AND VIOLENT CRIMES
A man from Bradford, Anthony Mawson, has been sentenced to a lengthy term of 17 years in prison after being convicted of a series of heinous sexual and violent offences.The conviction was the result of a trial held in May, during which Mawson, aged 38, was found guilty on multiple charges including rape, sexual assault by penetration, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
The sentencing took place at Bradford Crown Court today, with the proceedings conducted via a video link from the prison.
Mawson had been held on remand at HMP Leeds for several months prior to the conviction.
The court heard that his conduct was not only serious but also deeply depraved.
The presiding judge, Recorder Gavin Doig, emphasised the gravity of Mawson's actions, noting that he had reviewed various psychological and probation reports compiled after the trial.
During his address, Recorder Doig remarked that Mawson had displayed no remorse or humility throughout the legal process and showed a lack of understanding of the severity of his crimes.
Evidence presented revealed that Mawson had physically assaulted his victim by twisting their fingers and leg and punching the victim on the hip, adding to the seriousness of his violent behaviour.
In light of his crimes, Mawson was sentenced to a total of 17 years in prison.
Specifically, he received a 13-year sentence for the sexual offences, with an additional four years imposed consecutively to account for his violent conduct.
The court also mandated that Mawson sign the sex offender register for life, ensuring strict monitoring of his post-release movement.
His defense counsel, Ian Howard, highlighted Mawson’s personal challenges, including significant learning difficulties, dyslexia, and autism.
Howard explained that Mawson had used his time on remand to address issues related to drug misuse and was actively working towards academic qualifications to improve his chances of employment upon release.
Furthermore, Howard revealed that Mawson possesses a talent for music and song writing, and that there were plans for him to feature on national prison radio.
There was even consideration of relocating Mawson to London to provide him with better access to specialised facilities and support.
Howard also mentioned that Mawson had been making genuine efforts towards rehabilitation, despite the limitations imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which prevented his disabled mother from visiting him in prison.
The lawyer stressed Mawson’s awareness of his impending sentence, noting that he understood he would serve more than the minimum of seven years, and so he would not be eligible for early release at the halfway point.
Following the sentencing, Detective Sergeant Matthew Harrison commented on the case, stating, “We welcome the lengthy sentence handed down to Mawson today.
He is a violent man.
I would like to praise his victim’s bravery throughout the court process.
I hope this sentence brings them some closure so that they can finally move on with their lives.”
